Blood in pee? Then see your doctor

Derbyshire people noticing blood in their pee should tell their doctor, even if it has only happened once.

The plea was made this week by NHS Southern Derbyshire Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) to mark the launch of a national Be Clear on Cancer campaign that started on Tuesday (15 October) and runs to Wednesday 20 November.

The campaign by the NHS and Cancer Research UK spells out that blood in urine can be a sign of bladder and kidney cancers.

Dr Sheila Newport, Chair of NHS Southern Derbyshire CCG, said:

“If you notice any blood in your pee, even if it’s just once, you should tell your doctor straight away. The chances are it’s nothing serious but these cancers are more treatable if they’re found early.”

There are around 16,000 new cases of kidney and bladder cancer in England every year. Together, these cancers cause 7,000 deaths a year.

Yet between 92 per cent and 97 per cent of patients survive for at least a year if the cancers are diagnosed at the earliest stage. When diagnosis happens at a late stage, the figure drops to just 25 per cent to 34 per cent.

Dr Newport added:

“You’re not wasting anyone’s time by getting your symptoms checked out and, if it’s not serious, your mind will be put at rest.

“But if it’s a condition such as kidney or bladder cancer, early detection makes it easier to treat so seeing your doctor early could save your life.

“Some symptoms may be caused by an infection or kidney or bladder stones, all of which may need treatment. But don’t try and diagnose yourself. Go and see your doctor straight away to find out for sure.”

Blood in pee is the most common symptom of both cancers but other signs of kidney cancer include a pain below the ribs that does not go away or a lump in the stomach. Symptoms of bladder cancer include needing to pee very often or very suddenly, and having pain while peeing.

People can reduce their chances of getting kidney or bladder cancer by:

Stopping smoking – it’s never too late to quit

Looking after yourself – maintain a healthy weight and take plenty of exercise

Eat healthily – eat five portions of fruit and vegetables a day.

Both cancers affect men and women but are more common in men. Most people diagnosed with the two cancers are over 50.

ENDS

NOTES TO EDITORS:

NHS Southern Derbyshire CCG represents 57 GP practices and is one of four clinical commissioning groups in the county responsible for the healthcare of people in Derbyshire.